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Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Wallop

Definition: (from dictionary.com)
-verb (used with object)1. to beat soundly; thrash2. informal. to strike with a vigorous blow; belt; sock3. informal. to defeat thoroughly, as in a game4. chiefly Scot. to flutter, wobble, or flop about-verb (used without object)5. informal. to move violently and clumsily6. (of a liquid) to boil violently7. obsolete. to gallop-noun8. a vigorous blow9. the ability to deliver vigorous blows, as in boxing10. informal.a. the ability to effect a forceful impression; punchb. a pleasurable thrill; kick11. informal. a violent, clumsy movement; lurch12. obsolete. a gallop

Examples:

"Wendy wants to wallop William when Wisconsin wins."

"The sauce on those chicken wings really packs a wallop."

Origin: (from etymonline.com)

"late 14c., 'to gallop,' possibly from Old North French *waloper (13c.), probably from Frankish *walalaupan 'to run well' (cf. Old High German wela 'well' and Old Low Franconian loupon 'to run, leap'). The meaning 'to thrash' (1820) and the noun meaning 'heavy blow' (1823) may be separate developments, of imitative origin."